When I signed up for this swap, I never thought I would get a full sized painting, but this is what was waiting for me in a rather large package today:

And, a pack of greeting cards (photographed on the Ansel Adams print that I ripped off my wall so I could hang up my new painting):

Thank you so much fouficat! Now, everyone go here: http://www.hula-la.com/And arrange to buy some of her stuff, because it's amazing!

oh my god, best painting ever! you are so lucky. i went to her site, and it's great. i bet she could do the absolute coolest owl in her style. actually, i suppose she could read this herself and i shouldn't talk about her in third person. fouficat - YOU RULE!

GREAT start to the swap!! SheRa, you look way cute in your new outfit!

Many thanks to SheRa for running this swap! As someone who's more artsy than crafty, I am delighted to see so many people getting to display their talents and getting a chance at some incredible swap goods. I've gotta tell ya, I browse the swaps very carefully, looking for places where my abilities fit in. It feels so good to have this one to work on.

Sedrasmom, I'm hard at work on your art piece tonight! It's stretching me into trying new approaches to art, and so far, I'm really excited and happy with the progress!

it's so funny how excited everyone is for a part 2 when the mail date hasn't even passed yet! it's great that people are sending early, but don't forget there will be a LOT more in this gallery in a few weeks. i'm really glad everyone liked my idea, and especially thanks to writer78 for helping me with the write-up. i can't wait to see more stuff!

Oh WOW, Ashley, you look gorgeous! I feared the set I made you didn't fit you (you know sizes can be challenging sometimes), but it seems the top+skirt fot you like a glove I'm really happy, thank you so much for organizing this swap